VALEDICTORY SERMON, 

ON LEAVING THE OLD MEETING HOUSE 
IN BROOKLINE, 

8 june, 1806 ; 

AND A 

DEDICATORY SERMON, 

ON ENTERING THE NEW HOUSE OF WORSHIP, 

II JUNE, 1806. 



By JOHN PIERCE, A. M. 

MINISTER OF BROOKLINE. 



THE FASHION OF THIS WORLD PASSETH AWAY. 

THE APOSTLE PAUL, 



CAMBRIDGE, 7 
WILLIAM HILLIARD, PRINTER 

1806. 



\ 



B'X^'*? 4-3 




QN REGJRD TO HOUSES OF PUBUCK WORSHIP. 

..«<a».. 

A 

VALEDICTORY SERMON. 

««>....<>.... <>„ 

PSALM XXVI. 8. 

10RD, 1 HAVE LOVED THE HABITATION OF THY HOUSE, AND THE 
PLACE, WHERE THINE HONOUR DWELLETH. 

It is conjectured, that David wrote this 
psalm, when an exile among the Philistines through 
the persecutions of Saul. But, wherever situated, 
it appears, that he was at a distance from the tab* 
ernacle, and that he still retained an ardent affec- 
tion for this place of divine worship. 

From accusations, which had been alleged against 
him, he appeals to God with conscious rectitude. 
As proofs of his integrity, he asserts his trust in 
the Almighty, his sacred regard to truth, his absti- 
nence from wicked companions and their evil cours- 
es, the manner, in which he had worshipped Jeho- 
vah, and the love he had entertained for his holy sanc- 
tuary. " Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy 
house, and the place, where thine honour dwell- 
cth." From this passage we may therefore deduce 



4 



the respect, which saints always feel for houses of 
publick worship. 

They do not however regard them, as the ulti- 
mate objects of affection. This would evince a su- 
perstitious disposition, highly unworthy the friends 
of rational piety. 

By the association of ideas we may entertain a 
kind of reverence for buildings devoted to solemn 
worship and praise. This reverence, if not carried 
too far, may subserve important purposes. But it 
should have ultimate respect to him, who " dwell- 
eth not in temples made with hands." 

The regard, which saints feel for houses of pub- 
lick worship, is not on account of the worldly pleas- 
ures, which they have there enjoyed. This would 
imply, that they had devoted them to uses for- 
eign from their design ; that, instead of meeting 
in them for the solemn worship of God, they had 
converted them into edifices of amusement, or of 
business. 

Nor, in fine, do saints cherish a love for houses 
of publick devotion, because, through the mere force 
of custom, they have been led to frequent them. 
They are indeed in the constant habit, unless pre- 
vented by absolute necessity, of repairing to the 
house of God. But this habit is founded both in 
reason and religion. They have acquired it from 
the conviction, that the Almighty is to be worship- 
ped, and that he deserves and demands a reasonable 
service. They have acquired it from a desire 
of rendering homage to the Most High; and 
from the delight they take " in the beauties of ho* 
Imesso 95 



5 



h This leads me more particularly to mention, 
that saints love " the habitation of God's house," 
because it is dedicated to the service of their al- 
mighty father and friend. 

Having chosen him for their everlasting portion, 
it is their earnest desire, that he should be honoured 
and obeyed. They wish not only to yield him 
suitable respect and submission themselves ; they 
are anxious, that others also should feel a kindred 
affection, and pay similar homage. For these 
and other reasons, they rejoice to see edifices erect- 
ed for the worship of their gracious sovereign. 
They are sensible, that, if improved aright, they 
will be the means of bringing glory to God, and 
of procuring essential benefits to their fellow 
men. 

Hence they sacredly devote them to the purposes, 
for which they are intended. They are sorry to 
see them improved for profane or worldly uses ; 
because they are persuaded, that, in proportion as 
respect for houses of publick worship is diminished, 
it will lessen the reverence, which ought ever to be 
entertained for the omnipresent Jehovah. This 
will be its effect, in some degree, upon themselves. 
Much more will it serve to diminish the reverence of 
those, who are greatly influenced by external ap- 
pearances, and who cannot easily distinguish be- 
tween disrespect to the house and disregard to the 
character of the Almighty. 

Besides, there appears a peculiar fitness in thus 
appropriating to divine service buildings, erected 
to the Most High, Who would not be struck 
with the impropriety of meeting in places devoted 



6 



to theatrical amusements for the worship of Jeho- 
vah ? With equal inconsistency do we assemble 
in houses of publick worship for any other purpose, 
than to serve God in spirit and in truth. 

II. But, secondly, saints feel a regard for these 
sacred edifices, because they take delight in their 
publick and solemn exercises. 

As they love the Lord their God with all their 
heart, they rejoice in every opportunity to give ev- 
idence of their affection. They are therefore " glad, 
when it is said unto them, let us go up to the house 
of the Lord." They suffer no trivial excuse, such 
as a slight indisposition, unpleasant weather, much 
less any worldly pursuits, to debar them from pay- 
ing " their vows unto God in the presence of his 
people." 

When in his house, they take a pious satisfac- 
tion in its services. On addressing the Most High, 
they elevate their hearts and affections to him with 
devout adoration of his perfections, with contrition 
for their offences, with sincere desires of his pardon 
and favour, and with grateful acknowledgments of 
his goodness. When his praises are celebrated in 
sacred musick, if they have a natural taste for the 
art, it tends to increase and animate their devotion ; 
if not, they can cordially join in the sentiments ex- 
pressed. From the explanation and enforcement of 
divine truth in the discourses of God's ministers 
they receive confirmation of their faith, reproof of 
their sins, and admonitions to duty ; they reflect on 
the improvement they have made of providential dis- 
pensations ; they compare their conduct with the 
demands of God's word ; and they form the most 



7 



solemn resolutions of future amendment. From 
the delight they experience in these holy exercises, 
there is no wonder, that they feel an attachment to 
the houses, in which they are performed. 

III. Saints entertain a regard for places of wor- 
ship, because they are the instruments of such pri- 
vate and publick good. 

They do not esteem them, merely because they 
are beneficial to themselves. This would evince a 
narrow regard to self interest, inconsistent with 
the benevolence of a christian. It is a prominent 
trait in the character of saints, to rejoice at the 
good of others. Next to the satisfaction they de- 
rive from the temples and sacred institutions of Jeho- 
vah themselves, it is their happiness, that others 
share these benefits. 

The advantages resulting to mankind in their /«- 
dividual capacity from temples sacred to the Most 
High influence saints to love " the habitation of 
God's house." 

A moment's consideration will evince, that these 
advantages are great and numerous. Where shall 
the sinner be roused from the carnal security, into 
which he is fallen, but in places, where are denounc- 
ed the terrours of the divine law ? Where shall 
the impenitent be melted into contrition, if not be- 
sought in publick " by the mercies of God" to turn 
from their evil ways ? Where shall the contrite re- 
ceive hopes of pardon, and mourners find comfort, 
but in the sympathy of God's people, and in the 
services of the sanctuary ? Where shall the infidel 
be impressed, the wavering established, the doubt- 
ful confirmed, the inquisitive satisfied, the ignorant 



8 



/ 



instructed, the backsliding reclaimed, and the pious 
edified, but in the ministrations of God's house ? 

Besides these advantages to individuals, the insti- 
tutions of divine worship produce a salutary influ- 
ence on the publick. They raise the standard of mo- 
rality. They make religion respected by those, 
who do not love it. They oblige those, who have 
the least regard to reputation, to practise their 
enormities in private. The community is thus in 
some measure preserved from the contagion of the 
worst examples. Some check is thus imposed on 
those, who would otherwise brook no restraint. 
Even the very laws of society are meliorated ; and 
many are influenced by external restraints to a de- 
cency of demeanour, on whom religion has had no 
sanctifying influence ; and thousands are kept back 
from open and flagrant crimes, who have " no fear 
of God before their eyes." For these among other 
important reasons, saints love " the habitation of 
God's house." 

IV. But this devout affection is excited to the 
highest pitch, when they call to mind the many se- 
rious impressions they have there received, the de- 
lightful seasons they have there passed, the solemn 
resolutions they have there formed, and the 
pious habits they have there had confirmed. 

If one place have been the scene of all these happy 
experiences, if in one temple they have been conduct- 
ed through the various grades of the christian life, 
it is not strange, if it become the object of a strong 
attachment. We always remember with pleasure 
the very places, where we have experienced signal 
favours. This attachment to Zion, the city of the 



9 

Jewish solemnities, is represented so great, that her 
" servants take pleasure in her stones, and favour 
the dust thereof." Well may such reflections lead 
the pious to exclaim in the rapturous language of the 
psalmist, " How amiable are thy tabernacles, O 
Lord of hosts ! My soul longeth, yea, even faint- 
eth for the courts of the Lord. My heart and my 
flesh crieth out for the living God. Blessed are 
they, that dwell in thy house. They will be still 
praising thee." 

This language must appear like the sallies of en- 
thusiasm, or the ravings of a delirium to those, 
who have no relish for the blessings it celebrates. 
But no joys can be compared to those, which the 
pious experience in the exercises of religion. All 
other delights, though they appear more rapturous 
and imposing, are flat and insipid, when put in 
competition with theirs. Yet of these holy pleas- 
ures the most satisfactory are those, which they 
enjoy in the house of God, and in the communion 
of saints. They have had many delightful seasons 
in their closets and in their families ; but the house 
of God is the place, where he commonly sees fit to 
impart his choicest spiritual blessings. 

How natural then is it, that saints should retain 
an ardent affection for the habitation of God's 
house ? How must this affection be increased in 
proportion to the length of time, in which they 
have reaped these heavenly benedictions ? The 
sons of riot and of mirth contract a strong affec- 
tion for their haunts of licentiousness. They im- 
prove every opportunity to frequent them ; and 
they never appear happier, than when they meet 



lO 

their jovial companions, and unite in acts of dissi- 
pation. From the same principle, though with very 
different views and objects, the faithful disciples of 
Jesus become attached to the sanctuary of the Lord. 
They omit no favourable occasion to engage in its 
solemnities ; and they experience delights, which 
those only, who have tasted them, can conceive, 
in social worship, in acts of communion and fellow- 
ship with the father, and with his son Jesus Christ. 

I shall now close my discourse with some perti- 
nent remarks and inferences. 

i. It is, first, an unfavourable symptom, when 
people manifest little or no regard for " the habita- 
tion of God's house." It gives too great reason to 
suspect, that their affections are otherwise engaged. 

Yet what numbers appear to answer this de- 
scription? How many avail themselves of any excuse, 
of imaginary indisposition, of worldly affairs, of 
the company of friends, to absent themselves from 
publick worship ? The neglect of the sanctuary 
and of the various institutions of religion is evident- 
ly a growing, an alarming evil. It infects all classes 
in society, the high and the low, the rich and the 
poor. We cannot account for this, but by an in- 
difference to divine things, which portends the most 
direful consequences. For what principle shall re- 
strain men, who " have not the fear of God before 
their eyes" from every crime, which they may in- 
cline to perpetrate, and which they can commit with 
impunity ? Nothing, but the powerful arm of the 
magistrate. But, if the depravation become gene- 
ral, legislators themselves will frame " mischief by 
law," and will erect no barriers to the most danger* 



•us vices. In this case the strong arm of the pow- 
erful alone can be adequate to protection. The 
moral influence of laws will be of no avail, where 
there is no disposition to observe them. Nor will 
it answer any purpose for legislators to enact whole- 
some regulations, unless they themselves observe 
them, and unless they provide for their execution. 

But the most alarming effects of this irreligious 
spirit extend to a future world. Though persons, 
who are most interested in this remark, are the least 
influenced by it ; yet it cannot be supposed, that the 
Almighty will hold them guiltless, who thus disre- 
gard his worship, and neglect to give him the hon- 
our, which is his just due. He will not ; for in his 
word he has threatened severe and aggravated pun- 
ishment to the finally impenitent. 

This increasing disrespect for the house of God 
must be imputed to " an evil heart of unbelief/' 
as its true source, to an indisposition for re- 
ligious services, to an immoderate pursuit of 
worldly business or amusements. It cannot be ex- 
pected, that they, who are thus disposed, should 
feel a sincere affection for the sanctuary, where their 
sensual and worldly spirit is incessantly condemned, 
and where they find so little to favour their unholy 
purposes. 

But, it is proper to add, that the most regular ob- 
servance of publick worship is no certain evidence, 
that we truly love " the habitation of God's house." 
We may go there through the force of custom, or 
from unworthy motives too obvious to be mention* 
ed ; and we may possess no more real piety, than 
they, who wholly neglect " the assembling of them* 
selves together." 



12 



2. If therefore we have been constant at the ser- 
vices of the temple, it becomes us, secondly, to in- 
quire, by what motives we have been influenced. 

Has it been through a sincere regard to the glory 
of God, to worship him " in spirit and in truth," 
to " grow in grace," and thus to make progress in 
religion? If so, we have been governed by right prin- 
ciples. Our attachment to the house of God has 
been sincere and praiseworthy ; we shall reap much 
present advantage, and shall enjoy a much more 
ample recompense " at the resurrection of the just.' 5 

But, if otherwise, if we have no good evidence 
to believe, that we have frequented the house of 
worship from pious and good motives, our constant 
attendance will signify nothing with him, who re- 
quires " truth in the inward parts." There is great 
danger of resting in the forms of religion, without 
regard to its vital influence. 

3. That love, which we ought ever to feel for 
" the habitation of God's house," should make us 
shudder at the thought of perverting it to unworthy 
purposes. 

This we do, not only when we attend upon its in- 
stitutions without right views ; but also whenever 
we manifest any lightness of speech or behaviour 
amid its solemn services, especially, when we com- 
pose ourselves to sleep, and are thus inattentive to 
the messages of grace addressed unto us. " Holiness 
becomes God's house forever ;" and, considering 
the pious objects to which it is devoted, we ought to 
be exceedingly careful, how we undervalue it in our 
own view, or do any thing to lessen a reverence for 
Its institutions in the view of others. 



*3 

4. When we are detained from the house of God 
by sickness, or are obliged to bid adieu to it by the 
approach of death, it will afford us sweet satisfac- 
tion, if we can reflect, that we cc have loved the hab- 
itation of God's house." 

The expression of the psalmist in the text was 
uttered, when he was driven from the stated wor- 
ship of the sanctuary ; and it appeared to yield him 
heartfelt satisfaction, that he had conscientiously 
improved his past opportunities in the service of his 
Maker. This doubtless afforded him the greatest 
consolation he could enjoy amid the calamities of ex- 
ile and of absence from the place of his affections. 
On another similar occasion he breaks out into this 
rapturous language, " A day spent in thy courts is 
better, than a thousand. I would rather be a 
doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell 
in the tents of wickedness." Such supports will 
be ours, if we can appeal to past improvement of 
the temple of Jehovah with the same consciousness 
of rectitude. It is a comfort often greatly needed, 
to support the mind under dangerous sickness, and 
especially in the near view of dissolution. At that 
awful moment, we sometimes hear those, whose 
consciences have not become completely hardened, 
lament neglected opportunities of worship, which 
are forever past. We hear them adopt the spirit 
of that complaint, " How have we hated instruc- 
tion, and our hearts despised reproof ; and have not 
obeyed the voice of our teachers, nor inclined our 
ears to them, that instructed us !" Would we be 
preserved from such uncomfortable reflections, we 
must improve seasons of health and prosperity in 



l 4 



cherishing and manifesting a regard to publick wor- 
ship. 

5. Lastly, when we leave a house of prayer, to as- 
semble in it no more, it becomes us to " remember, 
how" we have " received, and heard, and hold fast, 
and repent." 

This, my hearers, is now to be the case with us. 
We are, this day, to bid adieu to this venerable temple, 
in which many of us have enjoyed such sweet commun- 
ion, and to which some of us have become attached 
by a long period of time. 1 Nearly ninety two years 
have elapsed, since the corner stone was laid " with 
the voice of joy and praise" by your devout fore- 
fathers. When they were few in number, and mo- 
derate in their circumstances, they piously resolved 
with God's ancient servant, " Behold, we will build 
a house to the name of the Lord our God to de- 
dicate it to him." Recollect, that, but two cen- 
turies since, these regions' were the abodes of sav- 
age barbarity, ignorance, and superstition ; and per- 
haps on the very spot, where we and your fathers 
have worshipped the only true God, the infernal 
Hues of paganism were then performed. But God 
be praised, who has preserved us from the service 
of dumb idols, and inclined us to pay homage to 
the only proper object of supreme regard. Thanks 

1 Mr. John Goddard, the oldest person present on this occasion, has at- 
tended publick worship in this house, most of the time, for 72 years. 

1 On Sewall's farm in this town are now plainly discernible the re- 
mains of an Indian fort, containing about the eighth part of an acre. It ii 
of a square form, surrounded by a ditch nearly three feet deep, and a par- 
apet about three feet high. It has an opening or gateway at each side. 
One of these is directly toward a large swamp, commonly called Cedar 
Swamp, near which the fort is situated, on a commanding eminence. Tra- 
dition, which has long preserved the memorial of this fort, gives no ac- 
count, by what tribe of Indians, on what occasion, nor why it was erected- 



*5 

be to God, for the prosperity, which has attended 
this house, so that children's children, even to the 
fifth and sixth generation, have been permitted to 
worship within these sacred courts. 

May we not piously hope, that many sons and 
daughters have been conducted to immortal glory 
through the portals of this holy temple ? May 
we not hope, that their " spirits" now " made per- 
fect" are with complacency beholding the proceed- 
ings of their children ? Let us attentively listen to 
the advice, which, we may presume, they would~ 
give us, were they permitted to burst the veil, which 
conceals them from our view. c Children, you have 
c done virtuously in erecting a more commodious 
6 temple to the Lord your God. " O worship the 
c Lord in the beauty of holiness. Follow peace 
€ with all men. Be at peace among yourselves." 
6 May " the Lord count, when he writeth up the 
€ people," whom he will forever bless, that thous- 
ands were "born" to glory "there." To this 
' purpose, may the building, you are about to con- 

* secrate to Almighty God, be forever devoted to 
c its professed object. Reflect on the manner, in 

* which you have improved your many past oppor- 
6 tunities, repent of whatever is sinful, reform what 
6 is erroneous, and prepare to meet us in climes of 
c endless bliss/ 

And now, thou monument of our fathers' piety, 
farewell. Farewell, ye ancient pillars, ye venerable 
walls, and, thou sacred desk, farewell. We will yet 
endeavour, by " help obtained of God," not wholly 
to forget the instructions we have here received, 
the counsels, which have here been given, the warn- 



i6 

ings, which have here been urged, the threats, 
which have been here denounced, the promises, 
which have been here unfolded, and the many prec- 
ious seasons we have here enjoyed. 

" Lord, we have loved the habitation of thy 
house, the place, where thine honour dwelleth." 
May we still resolve, on entering yon spacious and 
elegant temple, that " we will not forsake the house 
of our God. And may God almighty be with us, 
as he was with our fathers. May he never leave 
us, nor forsake us." Amen, 



A 

SERMON 

DELIVERED AT BROOKLINE, 
ii june, 1806 ; 

AT THE 

DEDICATION 

OF THE NEW MEETING HOUSE. 



By JOHN PIERCE, A. M. 

MINISTER OF BROOKLINE. 



*' HOW AMIABLE ARE THY TABERNACLES, O LORD OF HOSTS ! 
«* O WORSHIP THE LORB IN THE BEAUTY OF HOLINESS." 



CAMBRIDGE, 
WILLIAM HILLIARD3 PRINTER. 

1806. 



Exercises at the Dedication. 

I. An Anthem, " O Lord God of Israel/ 5 &c. 

II. The Rev. Thomas Gray of Roxbury made 
the introductory prayer, and read 2 Chron. vi. 

III. Psalm xcv, Belknap's Collection, to the 
tune of Christmas hymn. 

IV. The Rev. John Bradford of Roxbury made 
the dedicatory prayer. 

V. Psalm lxxxiv to Portsmouth. 

VI. Sermon. 

VII. The Rev. Eliphalet Porter of Roxbury 
made the concluding prayer. 

VIII. Psalm lxv to Old hundred. 

IX. The solemnities were closed with " Brown's 
Dedication Anthem," " Hail glorious day !" &c. 



THE BENEFITS OF PUBLICK WORSHIP- 

A 

DEDICATORY SERMON. 

'<>""<>~o- 

EXODUS XX. 24. 

IN ALL PLACES) WHERE I RECORD MY NAME, I WILL CQME UN 70 
THEE, AND I WILL BLESS THEE, 

This consolatory promise was addressed by 
Jehovah to Moses, and through him to the children 
of Israel, to direct their worship, to revive thei: 
hopes, and to animate their obedience. They had 
just witnessed an awful and majestick spectacle at 
the foot of Sinai. That sacred mount had been 
<c altogether on a smoke ; because theLord descend- 
ed upon it in fire." To increase the terrours of 
the scene, " there were thunders and lightnings and 
a thick cloud upon the mount ; and the who!;, 
mount quaked greatly ; all the people, that was in 
the camp, trembled and even Moses himself w$« 
not exempt from the general consternation. 

While their minds were in this tender and sus- 
ceptible frame, the ten commandments were deliver- 
ed with solemn majesty through " clouds and thici 
darkness." 



20 



Having asserted the honour, and enjoined the rev- 
erence due unto his name, Jehovah next provides 
for the permanent influence of these impressions 
by prescribing altars for his regular worship. He 
directs them to be made of earth, that they might 
differ from the altars of the idolatrous Egyptians, and 
that they might be suddenly and easily erected, dur- 
ing the wanderings of the Israelites in the wilder- 
ness. That they might not despair of propitiating 
that being, whose terrours had made them afraid, 
he condescends to assure them, " In all places, 
where I record my name, I will come unto thee, and 
I will bless thee." 

The blessings, to be derived from places, sacred 
to the worship of almighty God, are here proclaim- 
ed. But, thanks to our heavenly father, these bles- 
sings are not now restricted to the altars, nor even 
to the magnificent temple of the Jews. The period 
has long since arrived, when neither to the mountain 
of Samaria, nor yet to Jerusalem is the acceptable 
worship of Jehovah confined. But, wherever he is 
" worshipped in spirit and in truth," there he re- 
cords his name, there he imparts his heavenly bene- 
dictions. 

Now, though grateful homage may be presented 
to the Most High in the retirement of the closet, or 
within the domestick circle, yet numerous and im- 
portant benefits obviously result from publick wor- 
ship. 

A consideration of these benefits appears natural- 
ly suggested by the text and the occasion ; and, it 
Is hoped, it will not be deemed unseasonable by an 
assembly, convened to solemnize., for the first time, 



21 



the worship of God almighty in this house of 
prayer. 

I. The publick worship of Jehovah in places, where 
he records his name, is, in the first place, favourable 
to devotion. 

That devotion, which would be cold and languid 
in retirement, is enlivened and invigorated in a pub- 
lick assembly. Its sacred ardour fires the breast of 
the humble worshipper, and by sympathy its genial 
influence is extended to others. Thus the devout 
person mutually receives and imparts fresh vigour in 
his religious exercises by joining in the devotions of 
the sanctuary. 

It is in this solemn office of piety, as in other con- 
cerns, the union of numbers tends to increase the in- 
terest and the zeal of each individual. A person 
may possess an ardent thirst for knowledge ; but 
his desire and ability to attain it are greatly increas- 
ed, when associated with others to accomplish the 
same object. An individual may form a benevolent 
project ; but he will be more likely to execute it 
with resolution and effect, if aided by others. On 
the same grounds our devotional feelings become 
more intense, in proportion to the number of de- 
vout fellow worshippers. 

There is in every breast a principle of sympathy, 
which is called into action by the influence of exam- 
ple. To this principle is it owing, that a whole au- 
dience are often suddenly and deeply affected in a 
similar manner. We insensibly " rejoice with 
them, who do rejoice, and weep with them, who 
weep." As this principle will account for those 
kindred feelings, which so often pervade a mixed 



22 

assembly, so it suggests a valid argument in favour 
of publick devotion. 

It will be said, that many return from the house 
of God, as they went, without taking the least inter- 
est in the prayers, which have been offered. Or, if 
they have felt a sudden glow of devotion, it proves 
transient, " as the morning cloud, or the early dew." 

But the abuse of a blessing argues nothing 
against its utility. If, while others are presenting 
devout prayers and praises to the Most High, these 
persons do not catch a portion of their spirit, they 
do violence to one of the most powerful springs of 
action in the human breast. For what can be bet- 
ter adapted to inspire with devotion the most hard 
and insensible heart, than to " go to the house of 
G-Gd with the voice of joy and praise, with the mul* 
titude, that keep holy day ?" What can be better 
adapted to this purpose, than the solemn exercises, 
in which they there engage ? What can conduce 
more to this end, than unitedly to offer adora- 
tions, confessions, petitions, and praises before the 
throne of the Eternal ? 

We accordingly find, that publick worship is one 
of the most usual means, which the Deity employs, 
to strike conviction into the impenitent heart, and 
to give it a relish for the beauties of holiness. How 
many devout souls can testify, that in the house of 
God they received their first impressions of piety ; 
and have thus realized the fulfilment of that gra- 
cious promise, " In all places, where I record my 
name, I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee ? 5> 

II. Publick worship is, secondly, beneficial, as it 
affords the best means of religious instruction. 



2 3 

A great part of mankind are so immersed in the 
cares, or so devoted to the pleasures of life, that, 
were it not for frequent and stated periods to recal 
attention to their Maker, they would be in danger 
of wholly forgetting him. The leisure they find is 
not so generally employed in religious inquiries and 
duties, as their importance demands. Hence the 
same arguments, which enforce worship of any kind* 
urge the necessity of publick worship. In its exer- 
cises the most interesting concerns of mortals are 
frequently brought to view. The ignorant are in- 
structed ; the careless awakened ; the unbelieving 
admonished ; the vicious rebuked ; the impenitent 
alarmed ; and the pious are confirmed in their most 
holy faith. Even they, who have made great ad- 
vances in other branches of knowledge, may hear 
some things, which deserve attention, from the hum- 
blest ministers of Jesus. 

To be sensible of the advantages resulting from 
these publick instructions, we have only to compare 
the state of morals and piety among christian and 
pagan nations. The comparison must at once im- 
press us with the value of our religious institutions. 

Some degree of this conviction will also be pro- 
duced by comparing those in christian nations, 
who regularly attend the publick worship of God, 
with those, who neglect it. Among the former we 
may often find persons of ordinary mental powers^ 
who far exceed in religious knowledge and virtuous 
practice persons of more intelligent minds. 

But suppose, there are frequent instances of men, 
who are wiser, than their teachers ; and who, in the 
ministrations of the sanctuary, hear no truth, which 



24 



they themselves could not better illustrate and de- 
fend. Still these cannot justly plead exemption 
from the necessity of publick worship. For, 

III. It is, in the third place, highly beneficial by 
suggesting incitements to duty. 

None are so confirmed in virtue, as not to re- 
quire frequent recurrence to plain and obvious 
truths. We oftener fail of performing duty through 
negligence, than through ignorance. The most im- 
portant part of ministerial fidelity therefore consists 
rather in enforcing what is familiar, than in exhib- 
iting what is new. 

It is a very common, yet a very erroneous senti- 
ment, that the most essential part of publick wor- 
ship consists in preaching, where man only is ad- 
dressed. This is so far from the truth, that it is 
really no part of worship. It is indeed highly use- 
ful in its place, to explain, enforce, and defend relig- 
ious principles and doctrines. It leads to the con- 
sideration of many truths, which we know better, 
than we observe. If it do not always amuse us by 
novelty, nor gain admiration by the display of ge- 
nius, it generally exhibits useful motives to the ob- 
servance of duty. 

But the essence of publick worship is devotion 
and praise. Of these solemn exercises the Deity is 
the immediate object. Next to the tendency of sin- 
cere prayer to procure the blessings desired, it is 
beneficial, as a mean of exciting us to duty. 

When, for example, we unite in devout adora- 
tion of the great first cause, how naturally does it 
confirm and increase our reverence of his character ! 
When we confess to him our sins ? and implore his 



25 

forgiveness, we must be mere hypocrites, if we are 
not thus excited to repent and amend. When we 
thank him for his numberless and inestimable fa- 
vours, true gratitude impels us to resemble him 
more, and to serve him better. When we entreat 
every needed benediction, it implies, that we strive 
to have our minds rightly prepared to receive and im- 
prove divine benefits. The singing of God's prais- 
es has also a happy tendency to excite the pious af- 
fections of those, who are <c formed for concord of 
sweet sounds." 

IV. In the fourth place, publick worship is high- 
ly beneficial from its social effects. 

In the house of God the high and the low, the 
rich and the poor, the pious and the impious, friends 
and enemies, all join in harmonious worship. Here 
the poor are taught to feel their consequence, and 
to act their part, as rational and immortal beings ; 
and the great ones of the earth are made to realize., 
that, " though called gods," they are but men. 
Here the pious learn to exercise pity, instead of in- 
dignation, toward the wicked ; and the impious are 
persuaded u to be followers of them, who are good." 
They, who cannot speak peaceably with each other 
in any other situation, and who are always 
studying mutual insults and injuries, here kneel 
together before the altar of him, who requires them 
to be reconciled to each other, that they may accept- 
ably offer their gifts. Here the frequent inter- 
course of all classes in society tends to restrain the 
impetuous, and to imbolden the timid ; to encour- 
age the diffident, and to check the presumptuous ; 
to elevate the humble, and to depress the proud 5 



26 



to strengthen friendships, and to heal animosities. 
In fine, as the roughest substances are made smooth 
by collision, so this frequent intercourse serves to 
remove the greatest asperities in human nature. 

V. The publick worship of God is therefore of 
great consequence, regarded merely in the light of a 
civil institution. 

By the sanctions it gives to virtue, it comes in aid 
of the laws to enforce useful restraints. Nay, by 
the commanding influence it acquires over the 
hearts and consciences of men, it extends its saluta- 
ry effects beyond the cognizance of human legisla- 
tion. By purifying the fountain of moral action, 
it helps to render " the issues of life" pure and sal- 
utary. It lessens the burden of legislators by induc- 
ing men to govern themselves ; and it excites them 
to pay a more circumspect attention to their lives, 
than could be effected by the most judicious laws, 
the most wisely administered. 

VI. But, sixthly, when viewed, as the medium 
of securing the approbation, receiving the aid, and 
enjoying the consequent blessings of Jehovah, pub- 
lick worship rises into the highest importance. 

Such advantages it affords to ail sincere worship- 
pers. For Jehovah expressly declares, " In all pla- 
ces, where I record my name, I will come unto thee y 
and I will bless thee." 

Now these blessings are such, as are bestowed 
in the present life, or such, as are reserved for the 
faithful " in the life, which is to come." 

Many are the present tokens of God's favour, 
which the pious experience in the religious services 
of his house. They do not indeed behold the bright 



2 7 

effulgence of the shechinah, which illumined and 
sanctified the tabernacle of old. This manifestation 
of divine glory was peculiarly adapted to the rude 
state of the world, in which the Mosaick economy 
was instituted, and to that system of religion, which 
principally consisted in addresses to the senses. 

Yet pious worshippers now enjoy that internal ev- 
idence of the divine presence and blessing, which con- 
vinces them of their reality, and which delights their 
souls. In solemn addresses to heaven, and in the cel- 
ebration of the divine praises, their devotional feel- 
ings are excited to the highest pitch ; and, while 
their piety is increased, their benevolence is enlarg- 
ed. Such exquisite delight do they take in the sa.-. 
cred exercises of God's house, and such salutary ef- 
fects do these services produce on their temper and 
deportment, that they can ascribe them to nothing 
short of almighty agency. 

But the richest blessings, they there derive, are 
secured to them in reversion. Here imperfection 
cleaves to their best services, disappointments abate 
their purest joys, and anxiety disturbs their sweet- 
est repose. But, encouraged by the benevolence 
of the Deity, and relying on the promises of his Son, 
they are persuaded, that, when their cc earthly house 
of this tabernacle shall be dissolved, they shall 
have a building of God, a house not made with 
hands, eternal in the heavens/' There those 
doubts, which now and then obscure their bright- 
est prospects, shall be dispelled. There those sor- 
rows, which now follow in rapid succession their 
happiest moments, shall give place to uninterrupted 
joys. There that coldness and indifference; which. 



28 

now adhere to their best services, shall be succeed- 
ed by- unwearied zeal in ascribing "blessing, and 
honour, and glory, and power unto him, that sit- 
teth on the throne, and to the Lamb forever and 
ever." 

1. From the subject, we, first, infer the eminent 
blessings, enjoyed by those, who sincerely worship 
God in his house. 

Not that publick worship will invariably produce 
these happy effects. In itself considered, it is a 
merely positive institution ; and it can be no other- 
wise useful, than as it enkindles and advances piety 
of heart and of life. Men may be constant in the 
services of the temple, who have no true regard to 
the being, whose worship they profess to celebrate. 
But, when the homage, they pay the Most High in 
his earthly courts, is sincere, it commonly leads to 
the various offices of the christian character. 

How happy then, both for time and eternity, are 
those privileged saints, whom God meets and bles- 
ses in the place, €C where his honour dwelleth ?" 
They receive support under the trials, comfort un- 
der the afflictions^ and hope amid the calamities of 
this mutable state. Yes, devout and humble soul, 
thou mayest here endure the greatest personal suffer- 
ings ; thou mayest here be exposed to the frowns of 
heaven ; thou mayest here encounter the scorn, the 
contempt, the persecutions of the world. But by 
strength derived from thy God, and from him, " who 
endured the contradiction of sinners against him- 
self, 5 ' thou mayest be amply supported, Thou 
gayest be enabled triumphantly to exclaim, * Lord 
whom have I in heaven, but thee ? and there is none 



t 



2 9 

upon earth, that I desire, besides thee. My flesh 
and my heart faileth ; but God is the strength of 
my heart, and my portion forever." 

2. Wfe may, secondly, deduce the irrational part 
they act, who in any way deprive themselves or oth- 
ers of these comforts and these blessings. 

Of this description are they, who unnecessarily 
absent themselves from the publick worship of God. 
They may not feel their need of the instructions 
this affords. But we have seen, that other eminent 
advantages may be derived from this institution, 
which demand the attention of the most enlighten- 
ed, the most pious minds. Can any reasonably ob- 
ject to thy service, O God, " in whom we live, and 
move, and have our being V 9 Can any justly plead 
exemption from thy worship, before whom " angels 
bow, and archangels veil their faces ?" Can any 
wisely neglect due homage to thee, whom " the 
spirits of the just made perfect" continually adore 
in humble prostrations before>thy throne ? 

But the evils do not terminate with those, who 
neglect publick worship. By example they extend 
their baneful influence to others. Even the lowest me- 
nial servant possesses in this respect the power of do- 
ing injury. How much greater evils may be produced 
by those, whose station is more exalted, and whose 
example more influential ? They, who absent them- 
selves from the house of God, naturally involve oth- 
ers in the same neglect. If rich, they must have 
their companions and attendants ; if poor, they 
must have their associates. In proportion there- 
fore, as publick worship is any thing more, than an 
idle ceremony 3 are they accountable, who neglect it 



22 



themselves, or who in any way cause others to neg- 
lect it. 

Great God, do not evils pour in upon us in suf- 
ficient abundance, that this must be added to the 
sum of national degeneracy ? Have not enough of 
our wholesome institutions gone to decay, without 
exposing our very altars to neglect and contempt ? 
Have we not sufficiently deviated from the spirit of 
our ancestors, that we must sacrifice one of the 
strongest pillars of our national fabrick, established 
by their care, fostered by their piety, and handed 
down to us with their parental benedictions ? For- 
bid it, heaven, that we should be so degenerate [ 
Forbid it, my countrymen, that we should have no 
greater regard to our civil prosperity ! Forbid it, 
blessed spirit of our ancestors, that we should be so 
unmindful of thee ! 

3. As the Almighty graciously vouchsafes such 
blessings in places, where he records his name, we 
see the propriety of erecting and dedicating houses 
of worship to his service. 

This, beloved people of my charge, you have 
with a noble emulation effected. 

Though this place was settled within three years 
of our capital, to which it for several years belong- 
ed, yet so slow was its growth, that a century has 
but just elapsed from its incorporation, as a town. 
Even then your fathers were so few and so straiten-, 
ed, that, nine years after, they found it a heavy 
burden to erect yonder humble, yet venerable man- 
sion, in which we have lately shed the parting tear, 
and to which we have bidden a solemn adieu. We 
have consigned thee, dear house of our God, to that 



* 



destiny, which sooner or later awaits all earthly 
things. No wonder, that our " fathers and an- 
cient men," who had so long loved that habitation 
of God's house, " when the foundation of this house 
was laid before their eyes," should entertain melan- 
choly emotions, " while many shouted aloud for 

joy-" 1 

So great was your veneration for that ancient 
monument of your fathers' piety, that some of you 
hesitated, before you could consent to its demolU 
tiun. 

But you at length firmly resolved to " dwell no 
longer in your ceiled houses, and let the Lord's house 
lie waste." You resolved $ and discordant opin- 
ions were at once harmonised, and a mutual sacrifice 
of personal opposition cemented your union. 

"When you behold the discord and confusion, 
which so often arise respecting houses of worship, 
you have great occasion, my friends, to be thankful 
to him, who has disposed your hearts to peace, who 
has conducted you with such wonderful unanimity 
through an undertaking so difficult, so hazardous, 
and, considering your numbers, so expensive. 4C Be- 
hold, how good, and how pleasant it is to dwell to- 
gether in unity !" May you never be called more 
fully to realize this truth by the persecuting effects 
of a malevolent and party spirit ! 

Under the fostering care of your provident and 
faithful committee, a by the superintendence and ex- 

1 See Ezra iiL 12, 13. 

2 The committee for conducting the building were 

Deacon John Robinson Col. Isaac S. Gardner, Esq. 

Mr. Nathaniel Murdock Capt. Joseph Goddard 

Mr. Ebenezer Heath Mr. William Ackers 

Dr. William Aspinwall, Esq. Deacon Samuel Clark. 
Stephen Sharp, Esq. 



3 2 



ertions of a wise master builder' and his assistants, 
aided by the benefactions of generous and munifi- 
cent individuals, 1 this beauteous fabrick has risen 
to your view. 

Blessed be God, that in its erection no unlucky 
accident has stained it with blood. Blessed be God 
for the success, which has attended it through its 
various stages. May " the glory of this latter 
house be even greater, than the glory of the for- 
mer," by the multitudes, who shall here flock unto 
Christ, " as doves to their windows/' To tins 
purpose resolve, that you will convert it to no un- 
worthy use, that you will seriously attend on its 
regular ministrations, that you will render its beau- 
ty and order venerable in the eyes of beholders. O 
" forsake not the assembling of yourselves togeth- 
er, as the manner of some is nor thus deprive 
yourselves and others of the precious benefits, which 
publick worship is adapted to afford. 

As a motive for religious gratitude to the God of 
your fathers, compare the house, in which we are 
now assembled, in point of size, elegance, symme- 
try, and costliness with that, to which we have late- 

The three first did the principal part of the business. The six last were, 
with equal powers, a committee for consultation. 

i Mr. Peter Banner, a native of England, whose ingenuity and fideli- 
ty gave great and universal satisfaction. 

a The Hon. Stephen Higginson, Esq. gave the bell, manufactured in 
London, and weighing iooo pounds. 

Mr. Stephen Higginson, juri. gave the southern cherry wood for the 
pulpit, and the caps of the pews. 

Mr. John Lucas gave 400 dollars, out of which was purchased a clock. 

Richard Sullivan, Esq. gave 150 dollars toward the stepping stones. 

Mr. David Hyslop gave the baptismal bason, valued at 47 dollars. 

Mr. Thomas Walley of Boston gave an elegant church Bible in folio, 
valued at 36 dollars. 



33 

ly bidden adieu ; and let the reflection enkindle 
your pious thankfulness to him, who has thus made 
you to differ, who has thus abundantly blessed you 
with worldly prosperity. 1 " Beloved, I wish above 
all things, that your souls may also prosper, and be 
in health." 

It has been usual, on occasions like the present, 
to enliven the publick discourses with a detail of 
historical events relating to the church and people. 
But, as this was done, at the late completion of pur 
century, as an incorporated town, it will not be ex- 
pected, that I should now retrace the steps, which 
have been so recently taken. 

By solemn prayer and praise we now dedicate 
this temple to the service of him, who can make it 
the instrument of essential benefit to ourselves, and 
even to our children's children. " This is the day," 
which we have anxiously desired. " We will re- 
joice, and be glad in it. Save now, we beseech 
thee, O Lord ; O Lord, we beseech thee, send now 
prosperity. Blessed may he ever be, that cometh 
in the name of the Lord. We have blessed you 
out of the house of the Lord." Amen. 

I The whole cost cf the house was 18083 dollars. This with other 
contingent expenses, amounting altogether to 20193 dollars, was appor- 
tioned on the pews. The pews were then sold at auction, there being, 
exclusively of the one for the ministers' use, 87 pews. The highest sum, 
which was given for a choice, was 210 dollars, making the pew amount 
to 525 dollars. Four pews were sold for 500 dollars and upwards apiece. 
Thirteen pews were sold for above 400 dollars each. No pew below was 
prized at less, than 160 dollars ; and no pew in the gallery under 110 dol- 
lars. The amount of two of these pews is doubtless more, than was ex- 
pended, a century ago, in building the old meeting house ! 




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